Step into Eiheiji Temple in Fukui and explore the profound and secluded Zen realm of Japan

🌅Step into Eiheiji Temple in Fukui and explore the profound and secluded Zen realm of Japan 🚶‍♂️As you pass through the ancient mountain gate, a solemn and majestic atmosphere greets you. The stone path before you has been polished smooth by time, and each step feels like treading on the threads of history. On either side of the path, towering ancient trees block out the sky, with sunlight filtering through the layers of leaves, casting dappled shadows as if gently guiding you. These ancient trees stand like loyal guardians, silently watching over the temple and witnessing its trials and tribulations. As you walk along the stone path, the main hall of Eiheiji Temple comes into view. The architecture of the main hall is simple and elegant, with its flying eaves and brackets showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of traditional Japanese architecture. The vermilion beams and columns, though weathered by time, still exude a dignified aura. Stepping into the main hall, the interior is simple yet sacred. A large Buddha statue sits in the center, its compassionate gaze overlooking all beings, inspiring awe. The hall is filled with the faint scent of sandalwood, and the curling smoke seems to transport one's thoughts to a transcendent realm, where all worries and distractions are quietly dispelled. In addition to the main hall, Eiheiji Temple also has tranquil sub-temple gardens. Entering the garden feels like stepping into a secluded paradise. The meticulously pruned pine trees take on various forms, some resembling cranes about to take flight, others like elders deep in thought, each with its unique charm. The stone lanterns in the garden stand quietly in the corners, varying in height and age, with moss on their surfaces recording the passage of time. When lit at night, the warm yellow light of these stone lanterns shines through the gaps, casting a dreamlike atmosphere and adding a touch of mystery to the garden. The gardens of Eiheiji Temple are the ultimate expression of Zen. The meticulously arranged dry landscape gardens use white sand to symbolize the sea and rivers, and stones to represent mountains and islands. Without a drop of water, one can feel the fluidity and vastness of water; without a single plant, one can appreciate the resilience and tranquility of life. Simply standing before the garden and gazing at the dry landscape evokes a sense of serenity and distance, as if one can grasp the profound Zen philosophy of "nothing in the mind, everything follows fate." Beyond the architecture and gardens, the monastic life of Eiheiji Temple's monks is a unique sight. At dawn, when the first rays of sunlight touch the temple's roof, the monks begin their day of practice. Dressed in simple robes and holding prayer beads, they walk steadily towards the Buddha hall. The chanting echoes through the tranquil temple, the melodious sound seemingly transcending time and space, conveying the wisdom and compassion of Buddhism. Observing their focused expressions and orderly conduct, one can sense a power that transcends the mundane, inspiring a longing for such a simple and pure monastic life. In the afternoon, strolling through the corridors of Eiheiji Temple, one might occasionally see monks studying Buddhism under the eaves. They engage in quiet discussions or read with concentration, seemingly oblivious to their surroundings, immersed in the world of Buddhism. The corridor walls are adorned with exquisite murals depicting Buddhist stories. These vibrant and detailed murals vividly showcase Buddhist culture and history. While admiring the murals, one can also feel the deep cultural heritage of Buddhism within the temple. At dusk, the afterglow of the setting sun bathes every corner of Eiheiji Temple, turning the entire temple a shade of orange-red. The golden light reflects off the main hall's roof, shining brightly as if draping the ancient temple in a sacred cloak. At this time, the monks ring the evening bell, its melodious sound echoing through the valley, lingering for a long time. This bell seems to remind people that the clamor of the world will eventually pass, and inner peace and tranquility are the eternal pursuits. The story of Eiheiji Temple begins in the 13th century. At that time, Japan was in the Kamakura period, and Buddhism was flourishing on this land. Dogen Zenji, the founder of the Soto school in Japan, was dedicated to seeking the true essence of Buddhism and embarked on a journey to the west, crossing the sea to China. In China, Dogen Zenji visited famous mountains and rivers, met with many eminent monks and masters, and after enduring countless hardships, finally attained enlightenment at Tiantong Temple, planting the seeds of wisdom of the Soto Zen lineage deep in his heart. With the grand ambition of spreading Buddhism, Dogen Zenji returned to Japan. In 1244, he found a place in Fukui Prefecture that resembled a paradise and decided to establish a temple there, which became the predecessor of Eiheiji Temple. Initially, it was just a quiet mountain forest, and Dogen Zenji, along with his disciples, built a simple practice site brick by brick with unwavering faith and perseverance. They braved the elements, using the sky as their blanket and the earth as their bed, and despite the harsh conditions, they remained devoted to their practice and the spread of Buddhism. As time passed, in 1249, a sudden fire mercilessly consumed the newly established temple. This disaster was like a bolt from the blue, rendering Dogen Zenji and his disciples' efforts in vain. However, they were not discouraged and instead rose from the ashes with even greater determination to rebuild the temple. Through the collective efforts of all, Eiheiji Temple was reborn, grander in scale and more exquisite in architecture than before. In the years that followed, Eiheiji Temple's status in the Japanese Buddhist community grew increasingly important, becoming one of the two main temples of the Soto school, like a shining pearl attracting countless practitioners to seek knowledge and enlightenment. It was not only a center for the dissemination of Buddhism but also an important venue for cultural exchange and inheritance. Many scholars, literati, and poets came to draw wisdom from it, leaving behind a wealth of cultural heritage. During the Edo period, Japanese society was relatively stable, and Eiheiji Temple entered another golden age of development. The temple underwent continuous expansion, acquiring more magnificent buildings and exquisite gardens. The intricately arranged halls and pavilions, with their carved beams and painted rafters, embodied the pinnacle of craftsmanship and represented the zenith of Japanese architectural art at the time. Every plant, every stone in the gardens was meticulously arranged, full of Zen and poetic charm, making them outstanding examples of traditional Japanese garden art. However, the wheels of history do not always move smoothly. After the Meiji Restoration, Japan underwent dramatic changes, and Buddhism faced unprecedented challenges. Eiheiji Temple was not spared, facing numerous difficulties and challenges. The temple's land was requisitioned, its economic resources dwindled, and many precious cultural relics and buildings faced damage due to neglect. Yet, despite this, the monks of Eiheiji Temple remained steadfast in their faith in Buddhism, refusing to abandon it, and did everything they could to protect this ancient temple that bore a thousand years of history and culture.